XL-size Toyota Kluger ‘Grand’ teased

Toyota has teased a stretched version of the latest-generation Toyota Kluger in the US ahead of its official launch in February 2023.

Known as the Toyota Grand Highlander in North America, this XL-size Toyota Kluger has extra length over the standard model that liberates more space for cargo and passengers across the large SUV’s three-row cabin.

Set to be revealed at the Chicago motor show on February 8, the 2023 Toyota Grand Highlander will feature the Japanese brand’s new Hybrid Max powertrain, which was first revealed in the Toyota Crown and will also be offered in the upcoming Lexus RX 500h.

Combining a 2.4-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine with a rear-mounted electric motor, the Hybrid Max powertrain in the ‘Grand Kluger’ produces 274kW of power and 550Nm of torque, driving through a conventional six-speed auto transmission rather than a CVT.

An Australian-market launch still to be confirmed for the stretched seven-seat Toyota Kluger and the potent new Hybrid Max engine, but if neither eventuates locally a Lexus version could be offered down the track.

Indeed, high-end Lexus models based on the Grand Kluger/Highlander could wear Lexus TX 350 and TX 500h badges, for which trademark applications have been acquired by the luxury brand.

The stretched model could also herald a facelift for Kluger that sees the new Hybrid Max powertrain adopted across the broader range.

Described by Toyota USA as “sophisticated, spacious and powerful”, the Grand Highlander is based on the same TNGA-K platform architecture as the Kluger sold in Australia.

As the teaser image shows, the Grand Highlander’s rear-end has been altered compared to the regular Kluger/Highlander, with more rectangular LED tail-lights and angular sheet-metal around the tailgate.

Join the conversation at 

our Facebook page

Or email us at 

editor@carsales.com.au